WildBrain to sell its 41% stake in Peanuts Holdings to Sony for C$630M

WildBrain (WLDBF) has signed a definitive agreement to sell its 41% stake in Peanuts Holdings, the holding entity for the Peanuts IP, to Sony Music Entertainment (SONY) and Sony Pictures Entertainment for C$630M cash. The ownership of rights to the Peanuts brand and the management of its business are handled by Peanuts Worldwide LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Peanuts Holdings LLC. The family of Charles M. Schulz, creator of Peanuts, retain their 20% stake in the brand. The transaction is subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. The net proceeds will fully repay WildBrain’s Senior Secured Credit Facility, leaving over C$40M cash surplus. Under the agreement, WildBrain also remains a multi-year partner to Peanuts for key services, including: Exclusive licensing agent through WildBrain CPLG for consumer products in all current territories across Europe, the Middle East, China, and Asia Pacific (excluding Japan & ANZ); Exclusive production studio for new Peanuts content-including the previously announced feature film-under an expansive partnership with Apple TV, recently renewed through 2030; and distributor of WildBrain-produced Peanuts content and continued management of the Snoopy YouTube channel.